"Dennis Hopper Double Standard," curated by Julian Schnabel, will include artwork by Hopper from the last six decades, from an abstract 1955 painting to his 1960s photographs of soon-to-be-famous friends like Andy Warhol to so-called graffiti paintings of the 1980s. Incoming MOCA director Jeffrey Deitch singles out as "especially fascinating" more recent "wall constructions that relate to film sets" and installations using films such as "Easy Rider."

Judging from comments on the L.A. Times article breaking news about the show, it has already inspired fierce reaction on both sides. Some called the choice of artist an embarrassment or "tragedy" for MOCA ("Sorry, but he is no Ed Ruscha"). Others sounded excited to see the museum branching out. ("I think it's actually a wonderful idea for an exhibition.")

Originally Deitch said he hoped to organize the show "in time for Hopper to attend the opening." While that hasn't happened, he says Hopper was "closely involved" in preparations for the show in his final weeks.

Before catching a flight to Los Angeles, Deitch issued the following statement.

"I am very saddened to hear of the passing of artist, actor and filmmaker Dennis Hopper. The reason for doing the exhibition 'Dennis Hopper Double Standard' at MOCA at this time in Dennis' life was so that he could be closely involved."

"Dennis participated in the selection of works and how the show would be presented, working closely with myself, exhibition curator Julian Schnabel, curatorial consultant Fred Hoffman and with the Tony Shafrazi Gallery. He was involved with the exhibition press release, the choice and approval of every image for every magazine, in the design of the print advertisements -- in every aspect of the exhibition."

"His passing will change the context of the exhibition, but it will be a celebration of his diverse and iconic works and his role as an artist. Dennis was very happy and gratified to be having an L.A. museum retrospective."